There’s no other city I’d rather let loose than New York. The Big Apple is a hedonist dream, recognized as an international hub for the world’s top fashion designers, artists, architects, chefs and mixologists.
On the average day most visitors to NYC find themselves marching around Manhattan, snapping photos of breezy Central Park, jaw-dropping at the MET’s marvellous art and sliding slowly up the spiral staircase at Frank Lloyd Wright’s iconic Guggenheim.
When you find yourself hobbling along the street with sore feet, don’t fret. Instead spend an afternoon and eve skipping from one luxury hotel cocktail bar to the next. Rest your feet on plush pillows while nibbling on epicurean delights, quenching your thirst on freshly muddled marvels. This my friends is how you make a memorable splash in NYC!
5 Luxury Hotel Cocktail Bars in Manhattan
TY Bar at Four Seasons Hotel New York
TY Bar at the Four Seasons Hotel New York is a stylish, soaring space designed with art deco inspiration. With a legendary après-work scene, TY Bar is ideal for private conversations or lively, see-and-be-seen socializing. In this Midtown Manhattan bar, you can opt to discover a bespoke cocktail menu or choose from a long list of classics from the 1920s and 30s.
Enjoy a seat near the soaring windows, intimate fireplace or overlooking the Grand Lobby. High-end whiskies and bourbons, including a custom-barrel bourbon made exclusively by Hudson Bourbon for TY Bar, make it an unparalleled New York City bar experience. Highlights include ginger and lemon spiked New Fashioned, kimchee topped Soft Shell Crab Buns and sweet n’ petite Korean Beef Tacos.
Auden Bar at Ritz Carlton New York, Central Park
You’ll feel as though you’ve traveled back in time after hopping up on a stool at Auden Bar at Ritz Carlton New York at Central Park. Located on the hotel’s main floor, guests watch seasoned mixologist Norman Bukofzer whip up lovely libations while sitting perched overlooking Star Lounge.
The striking and beautifully appointed lounge features sky-high ceilings, dramatic wine display, plush sofas and pretty paintings which hang on antique wood panelled walls. Bukofzer is the sort of bartender you want to linger around your drink for. The colourful personality has been serving up sweet sips at the Ritz for over 30 years.
What better way to celebrate the city then by watching Bukofzer splash a Manhattan in your glass. The legend free pours with a flick of the wrist and produces a perfect drink where bright red cherry prefers to sink then swim.
Bar Fiori at Langham Place
Hop over to 5th Avenue, spin through the doors at Langham Place and tip toe up the stairs to the hotel’s Michelin-starred Ai Fiori. Meaning “among the flowers” in Italian – the menu here celebrates the French and Italian Riviera, courtesy of Chef de Cuisine Scott Schneider.
Slide over to the white marble topped Bar Fiori and watch as cocktails splash into an endless parade of crystal glass. Highlights include egg white frothed Oro Bianco, crispy arancini, tarragon and lemon scented Lobster Toast and decadent Duck Rillette with crunchy house made pickles.
Palm Court at The Plaza
For over 100 years, The Palm Court has been New York City’s iconic destination for Afternoon Tea. In 2013, The Palm Court was re-launched to include a grand bar, tea by Palais des Thés, and a new and revised menu featuring inspired American fare from morning through evening.
Renowned architect Thierry Despont completely renovated The Palm Court while staying true to its original design intent. Inspired by nearby Central Park and its lush greenery, Despont incorporated potted plants, ceiling-high palm trees, trellis detailing, and custom furnishings with cane accents. The room’s signature feature is a soaring stained-glass dome reminiscent of the original built in 1907.
Lobby Lounge at The Mandarin Oriental
If you’re a sucker for jaw-dropping views look no further than the Lobby Lounge at Mandarin Oriental. The elegant space is the perfect place to enjoy Asian-inspired snacks and knock back a duo of craft cocktails. With a wall of windows greeting guests as soon as the elevator doors open, the Lobby Lounge’s most prominent feature is its stunning panorama of Central Park and the Manhattan skyline.
Mixing art deco style with modern Oriental touches, the ambience is luxurious yet cozy, making the Lobby Lounge an ideal place to unwind after a busy day in Manhattan. Request window side seating if you can, allowing you to relax the day away while perched over Columbus Circle. Be sure to enjoy a “cheers up here,” via popular Champagne and Chambord swirled Bella Pesca. The pickled jalapeno topped Steamed Pork Buns and dainty Dim Sum Bento hit the spot.
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